New York, NY - Hope Knight, Acting Executive Director of the Business Resource & Investment Service Center (BRISC) announced earlier this week, Tuesday, August 26^th, that DAGAZ International, a custom drapery manufacturing company located in East Harlem, is receiving a $250,000 loan from the organization.

 In January of 1999, DAGAZ International became a New York State corporation after operating in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts since 1997.  The corporate name, "DAGAZ" is a Viking term for new beginnings. The proceeds from the loan will assist in the expansion of the company by allowing it to purchase additional equipment, build-out of the additional work space required to meet the company’s growth and cover working capital expenses.  The company’s manufacturing division is located at 1916 Park Avenue. 

           “In addition to the other outstanding businesses which are part of the East Harlem business community, the light manufacturing sector plays an essential role in the ever-growing Upper Manhattan economy,” said Ms. Knight.  “That’s why we are pleased to assist DAGAZ international as it moves forward with its expansion plans which will lead to more job creation, as well as contribute to the commercial and retail mixture that defines East Harlem.”

 Michael Tavano and Lloyd Marks, DAGAZ’s co-owners, said, “This loan will afford us the opportunity to expand our company within an area that we long ago realized was a perfect location for the type of manufacturing activities for which our company has become well-known and respected.”

     
ABOUT BRISC

 BRISC offers start-up and/or expansion loans to qualified businesses in Upper Manhattan.  Loans are from $50,000 to $250,000 in size, with a competitive fixed rate, a maximum seven year maturity and there isn’t a job creation requirement.  Additionally, BRISC technical assistance programs are available to ensure the sustainability, profitability and growth of small businesses in the Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone. Technical assistance includes consulting services, workshops, seminars and access to a large “how-to” library.  

 
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